Scouting director Joe Hortiz details what Ravens are looking for at wide receiver

Matt VenselThe Baltimore Sun

Two weeks ago, when addressing the state of the Ravens heading into this offseason, general manager Ozzie Newsome was vague when discussing the team’s stated need of adding another target for quarterback Joe Flacco.

The only clue Newsome gave was that the Ravens wanted a wide receiver or tight end “that can make a third-and-7, third-and-8 catch and run after the catch.”

“We want the guy that can make the play on third down, that understands how to get open against zone, who understands gaps in the zone, can settle in it and influence guys,” Hortiz said. “If it’s man, he can win in one-on-one situations. If somebody presses him, it’s going to be a risk.

“In football, it’s about gaining that initial separation, especially in those situations in third-and-7 because you’re shooting for the first down and not the end zone. They need to be able to get separation to give Joe a window to throw to. He can be eight yards away or a half-yard away, but he has to create a window for Joe and make the play.”